Citing an increase in mosquitoes in the area and the associated increased risk of disease such as West Nile virus, insect-control crews will conduct an “adulticide” spraying operation overnight in the city of Covina Wednesday.
The “ultra-low volume adulticide treatment” will be sprayed from a truck between midnight and 5 a.m. Wednesday in an area generally bounded between San Bernardino Road and Rowland Street, between Armel Drive and Citrus Avenue, according to the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District.
The operation will spray a substance called Aquaduet, which contains Sumithrin and prallethrin to mimic the properties of chrysanthemum flowers, according to the district. The chemicals are diluted in water, so it “will not harm the finishes on cars or homes,” district officials said in a statement.
“The presence of (West Nile virus)-positive mosquito samples combined with a high abundance of mosquitoes increases the risk of residents getting bit by a mosquito capable of transmitting WNV,” SGVMVCD Director of Scientific Programs Tristan Hallum said in a statement.
“This treatment will help decrease those populations, interrupt virus transmission, and protect residents from mosquito-borne diseases.”
District officials also offered a series of tips for people to help reduce mosquito populations on their properties:
— Eliminate standing water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs, or anything that holds water for more than a week.
— Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
— Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths, and other small containers weekly.
— Report neglected swimming pools to vector control officials.
The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District can be reached at 626-814-9466 or online at SGVmosquito.org.